January 26, 2010

Generally speaking, healthy human foods make healthy bird foods. The best way to ensure the health and happiness of your bird is to give them a nutritionally rich diet that includes fruits, seeds, and even insects. Wild birds tend to live a lot longer than domesticated birds and for the most part this is because of their diet. Most bird owners feed their birds seed-only diets which are not actually a balanced diet. When birds were first domesticated, we had little information about their diets in the wild and assumed that seeds and nuts would be sufficient. As we’ve learned more about the nutritional requirements of birds we know that because of their rapid metabolic rate birds are highly susceptible to dietary deficiencies.

Consequently, it is vitally important that we understand our bird’s dietary needs and try to ensure that they get a full and balanced diet. Seeds are good for birds because they are high in fat but have little in the way of vitamins which is why it is crucial that you introduce foods from a variety of food groups. Birds, like humans, rely on a range of vitamins for their survival and should be eating foods from the major food groups including dairy, meat, and fruits and vegetables. Dairy and poultry products like yogurt, cheese, or eggs can provide an excellent source of calcium and protein. Beans and legumes are a preferred alternative as far as a source of protein is concerned. Moreover, fruits and vegetables are necessary for a balanced diet as they provide the majority of essential vitamins.

As you can see, giving your bird food from a variety of sources provides them with all the vitamins and nutrients you need. Still, you should be careful to avoid foods that are high in fats as they’re likely to get the majority of their fat requirements from seeds and nuts.

Disclaimer: CritterCures is an educational resource, and all information herein is strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure diseases, nor is it meant to replace the (prescribed) treatment or recommendations of your veterinarian or healthcare provider. Always inform your veterinarian or healthcare provider of any products that your pet are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.